After studying abroad in the beautiful and vibrant Barcelona, Spain last fall, I learned a great deal about the Spanish film and media industry and how it differs from the industry in the United States. Throughout my studies in film and media at the University of Barcelona, I was not only astonished by the incredible films I had the opportunity to watch and study, but was inspired by how Spanish filmmakers showcased their unique skills in filmmaking and storytelling.
Here are six Spanish films that I recommend adding to your watchlist. All of these films are in Spanish, so if you don’t speak the language, just turn on the English subtitles and learn a bit of Spanish while you’re at it! I’ll also share some of my favorite Spanish expressions that I picked up from the films!
1. Volver by Pedro Almodóvar
If you have never watched a Pedro Almodóvar film, Volver should be your first! In most of his filmography, he masterfully portrays the world of women, reflecting his concerns about the feminine experience and aiming to tell stories of interconnected characters. Volver truly showcases the best of Almodóvar, a perfect blend of melodrama with a touch of humor, beautiful photography and music, all leading to a simple yet insightful film lesson from Almodóvar.
Volver follows two sisters, Raimunda, played by the famous and sensational Spanish actress Penélope Cruz, and Sole, who strive in life after losing their parents in a fire. Raimunda is a hardworking mother, while Sole runs an illegal hair salon. When their aunt Paula passes away, Sole returns to their hometown, but Raimunda stays behind. When Sole returns to their hometown for their aunt’s funeral, a ghostly presence of their mother appears in the trunk of her car.
A few expressions that stuck with me after watching the film!
- ¿Te estás quedando conmigo? → Are you kidding? Are you mocking me?
- Me puso los cuernos → When a partner had intimate relations with other people
2. 100 Metros by Marcel Barrena
This film is based on the true story of Ramón Arroyo, a workaholic whose life is turned upside down when a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis threatens his ability to walk. Determined to fight back, he trains to complete an Ironman triathlon with the help of his wife and grumpy father-in-law, refusing to give up. What drove him to prove to everyone and to himself that he can walk was when he was told he’d never walk more than 100 meters. His goal is to show that anything is possible with determination.
The film was recognized by the Spanish Society of Neurology for raising awareness about multiple sclerosis and promoting accurate understanding of the disease. With an 88% on Rotten Tomatoes and being available on Netflix, it’s definitely worth watching!
An expression that stuck with me:
- Tener un michelín → Have fat in the waist
3. Chico y Rita by Fernando Trueba
This film is an animated feature, but it’s such a unique animation that I’ve never seen before. I was captivated by the detailed animation from the beginning to end. The film beautifully showcases both romance and Latin jazz. It also includes several popular cinematic references, such as A Day in New York, Casablanca, and Vertigo. Even Marlon Brando is turned into a quick character within the story.
The film reflects on the flashbacks of an elderly man, Chico, who works as a shoe shiner. In Cuba 1948, Chico, a young jazz pianist, and Rita, an aspiring singer, fall deeply in love. Their passionate relationship faces many ups and downs. After winning a music contest, they secure a contract to perform at the Hotel Nacional. However, when Rita is offered a contract by a wealthy American businessman to sing in New York, it alters their relationship and changes their lives.
3. Campeones by Javier Fesser
You’ve probably heard of or seen this film before, but the english version, Champions, which was released in 2023 and stars Woody Harrelson and Kaitlin Olson. It follows the same storyline, but I still recommend the Spanish version because there are definitely differences beyond just the language (it also has higher and better ratings). Campeones is filled with humor and has a feel-good vibe, along with a heartfelt and important message.
The film focuses on a basketball coach named Marco who is struggling with personal and professional problems, lost in life. After a heated argument with another coach during a league match, he loses his job. Frustrated, Marco drives drunk and crashes his car. The court sentences him to community service, which involves coaching a basketball team for people with intellectual disabilities. He was at first reluctant and frustrated but soon realizes that there’s a lot to learn from this group, and the experience becomes life-changing.
A few expressions that stuck with me:
- Ser una mosca cojonera → To be a constant annoying person
- No me tutees → Prohibition of using a treatment informal when speaking
5. Todos Los Saben by Asghar Farhadi
When I say Penélope Cruz is the queen of Spain when it comes to acting, I truly mean it! Cruz is joined by her husband, Javier Bardem, in the film, and this duo is truly unstoppable and incredibly talented. Of all the films I’ve listed, this one has to be the most intriguing and shocking thriller filled with surprises that I’ve seen.
The film is about Laura, who travels with her family from Buenos Aires, Argentina, to her hometown in Spain for a wedding. The visit was supposed to be short. However, Laura and her family face unforeseen events that change the lives of everyone involved. This leads the family through doubts, suspicions, lies, and confessions.
6. Belle Époque by Fernando Trueba
Another incredible film by Fernando Trueba to add to your watchlist, this time not animated. Belle Époque won an oscar for Best International Film in 1993. The film features bizarre scenes and unique cinematography. The music and art strengthen the narrative, creating an image that is lively and full of emotion. Also, Penélope Cruz is in it!
The film is set in February 1931 in rural Spain, where Fernando, an army deserter, is walking through Spain without knowing where he is going. He is arrested by a father and son-in-law in the Civil Guard, who end up killing each other over a stupid argument. He spends the night at a house of prostitutes, where he meets Don Manolo, who invites him to stay. Fernando becomes friends with Manolo and is then intrigued by his four beautiful daughters. The film follows the relationships he forms with each of them.
A few expressions that stuck with me:
- ¿Tu crees que me chupo el dedo? → Do you think I’m stupid/don’t realize?
- Te faltan cojones → You are not capable, you are not brave
- Eres un cebollo → You are stupid
- Tu madre está mochales → Your mom is crazy
- Me da en la nariz… → I have the impression that…
Of all the films I’ve listed out, I hope there’s one that catches your eye or at least you learned a new phrase in Spanish.